Diocesanal Level

September 11th Prison Ministry of India together with Diocese of Shimoga Celebreted Independence day and Raksha bhandhan day at Central Prison of Shivamogga from 11am to 1pm. Family Counseling Director of the Diocese of Shimoga Fr Franklin D'Souza gave a heart touching message to the prisoners. He invited them not to lose hope in life. Believe in God and repent. You will be victorious. He addressed prisoners saying brothers and sisters in God's house. In prison no religion, caste or Creed all live together, eat together. He spoke the importance of freedom in life, Family values that we develop from our parents. He narrated some real incidents which brought tears in the eyes of inmates. He thanked Prison Superident Madam Divyashree who gave full cooperation for the program.

Sr. Helen in charge of prison ministry in the Diocese of Shimoga organized this historical event. Sisters from Shimoga, New Town Bhadravati and Old  Town Bhadravati; Srs. Urelia, Leena, Margaret, Mable, Rita, Elize, Victoria were also present.

Prison Superident Madam Divyashree invited inmates to transform their lives and after release go back to the family and live a renewed life. She told from our part we will make all possible efforts to help you out with good programs for your change. But real change it's you yourselves have to make a strong will to change your lives. She also thanked the PMI and Sisters. She appreciated the beautiful dances of children of Mary Immaculate School of Shivamogga.

At the end children tied raki to everyone in the prison. Some of them were in tears because they said they remembered their daughters and sisters at home.

We are greatfull to staff of prison their wonderful cooperation. Ms. Regina compered the program. Sr. Helen thanked every one.